The Concerto Plate: Early Fornasetti Musical Series (c. 1953)

This is a rare set of five early pottery plates by Piero Fornasetti, dating to circa 1953. This series is a fine example of Fornasetti's early output, which focused heavily on classical and whimsical motifs applied to functional ceramics.

The design features a vibrant, scattered arrangement of musical instruments-including violins, guitars, trumpets, French horns, and woodwinds-all strewn across the white surface. Interspersed among the instruments are snippets of printed musical compositions (sheet music), giving the impression of a lively, chaotic score. The instruments are rendered with striking graphic clarity and hand-coloring, making each plate a unique composition within the set.

Specifications and Marks

Date: Circa 1953 (as indicated on the mark)
Design: Musical Instruments Series

Dimensions: 9 1/4 inches diameter (23.50 cm diameter)
Medium: Transfer-printed and hand-colored ceramic pottery

Markings: The underside features distinct early manufacturing marks: Printed in green: Societa Ceramica Italy with an eagle motif and banner/ The date of manufacture: P 3-53 (March 1953)/ Fornasetti hand and brush motif pointing to FORNASETTI. MILANO/ MADE IN ITALY.

Historical Context: Post-War Prolificacy

This set dates precisely to the period immediately following World War II, a time when Piero Fornasetti was at his most prolific, often working closely with architect Gio Ponti. In the early 1950s, Fornasetti utilized various Italian and German ceramic manufacturers, such as Societa Ceramica, to provide the ceramics for his innovative designs. The explicit dating on the mark ("P 3-53") provides valuable historical specificity, confirming these plates as a true product of the burgeoning post-war Italian design scene. The musical theme aligns with Fornasetti's broader interest in the classical arts, which he always reinterpreted with a characteristic modern, graphic sensibility.

(Ref: NY9279/apr)


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good

Origin:
Italy

Creator:
Brand: Piero Fornasetti; Artist: Piero Fornasetti; Designer: Piero Fornasetti

Materials & Techniques:
Pottery

Details:
Country of Origin: Italy
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good